Thank you, Skyler said. Ridiculous. She was thanking a killer for complimenting her cooking. But they had to get through this somehow, and if being polite was what it would take, then she would be as polite as if shed been valedictorian of a finishing school.
You spend a lot of time cooking? Quintin asked.
Not really, Skyler told him, and without thinking, started to rise. He tensed. Sorry. I just thought Id have a beer, she said.
Ill have one while youre up, Quintin said.
Hell, Ill be joinin that party, Paddy said.
Even Brenda spoke up. Mrs. OBoyle, Id love a beer, too.
Ill just grab a six-pack, Skyler said. Poor Brenda. The girl was probably wishing herself miles and miles away right now.
She could have been with her own family. In fact, Frazier could have been with them, as well.
She was the reason they were here instead. She had subtly tried to make him feel guilty for even considering spending Christmas somewhere else. But, Frazier, you really should come while we still have the house. You know well probably get rid of it soon, since theres no sense keeping it now that you kids dont really enjoy it anymore. Just this year